The Benefits of Pre-Natal Yoga (Pregnancy Yoga)

The Benefits of Pre-Natal Yoga

Your body goes through some pretty serious changes during pregnancy (both physically and mentally) and Pre-Natal Yoga (Pregnancy Yoga) can help with some of these.

Moving through pregnancy safe Yoga poses (Asanas) can help increase strength, flexibility & stamina, but also help with those pregnancy niggles such as pain in the lower back & hips and tension in the shoulders & upper back.

Developing proper conscious breathing techniques not only calms the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety, but is also excellent preparation for a more comfortable labour. We believe a relaxed mama = relaxed birth = relaxed baby!

Improved balance is also a benefit of a regular Pregnancy Yoga practice and the improved circulation that comes with it, is great for reducing swelling - especially if you are suffering from swollen ankles and calves! Taking a Pre-Natal Yoga class can also improve your balance mentally as well, and can help to alleviate depression caused by the constantly changing hormones.

It's not just about the Yoga! You will get to meet other like-minded mums-to-be, talk about your experiences and feel a sense of community. Many people who have met at Pre-Natal Yoga classes remain friends long after pregnancy! The classes also include meditation, relaxation, birthing positions and hypnobirthing, so you will come away with a whole range of helpful techniques.

Even just an hour of Pregnancy Yoga a week is perfect for giving yourself and your baby some much needed time out from the busy world. By turning your focus inwards and slowing things down, Pre-Natal Yoga helps you to nurture, bond & connect with your baby.

Our next Pregnancy Yoga 6 Week course starts on Tuesday 13th November at 6pm at Hollyfields Sports & Conference Centre.

Eye Pillows - Savasana's Best Friend!

We all know Savasana is THE most perfect end to a Yoga practice, but think Savasana cannot possibly get anymore relaxing?! Think again!

Portable, lightweight, machine-washable and available in a range of colours & scents an eye pillow can help take your Savasana to another level.

Shutting out the light and any visual stimuli, lets your brain know that it is now time to be still and gentle acupuncture pressure on the eyelids sends a message of relaxation to the whole body.

A pillow gently placed over the eyes stimulates the vagus nerve which runs from the brain, into the chest & heart and all the way down into the abdomen. The vagus nerve helps to regulate the nervous system, digestion, the heart and your moods. It is the connection between the brain and the gastro-intestinal tract.

The gentle pressure also allows the forehead, temples, neck and even the shoulders to relax.

A few drops of your favourite essential oil can also help calm and rest the mind (lavender is fantastic for this!), however make sure that the oil is on the inner bag and not in direct contact with the eyes.

Outside of your yoga practice, an eye pillow at bedtime can help you fall asleep more quickly and keep you asleep through the night. Gently warming the eye pillow on a radiator (check it isn't too hot!), is a lovely treat on a cold day and placing it in a fridge is great for headaches, tired eyes and sinus problems.

Try it next time you are in Savasana - there will be no going back!

P.S I have eye pillows for sale for £4 each in a variety of colours!